Weather & Vehicle Preparation

How to prep your Subaru in different climates.

We can’t control Mother Nature, but we can control how prepared your Subaru is for her. Since driving conditions will vary throughout the year based on the region you live in, and the seasonal changes associated with it, we’ve categorized three general types of climates – warm, moderate and cold – and list the ways in which you can prepare your Subaru for each.

Warm Climate Preparation

Warmer climates usually produce mild to considerably warm temperatures all year long with rainfall occurring more often in the winter season. Areas near mountains, deserts and the coast can bring about different weather patterns and temperatures, but generally here are some common check-ups recommended from season to season if you live in a warm climate:

Inspect the tires – pressure, tread depth and condition

Consider summer tires over all-season tires

Test the battery

Review the A/C system

Check the oil level

Check all fluid levels

Check the wipers and exterior lights

Check the brake pads and components

Inspect the engine air and cabin air filters

Prepping for Summer

Moderate Climate Preparation

Moderate climates tend to have a mix between warm and cold climate zones with light snowfall in the winter and mild to warm summers with occasional rainfall. Some common seasonal vehicle preparations for a moderate climate are as follows:

Inspect the tires – pressure, tread depth and condition

Consider all-season tires

Check the oil level

Check all fluid levels

Inspect the heating, cooling and defroster system

Test the battery

Check the wipers and exterior lights

Check the components of the suspension system

Check the wheel alignment

Check the brake pads and components

Prepping for Spring

Prepping for Fall

Cold Climate Preparation

Colder climates usually dip below freezing when winter arrives and receive light to heavy snowfall for extended periods of time. The summer season brings similar conditions to that of warmer and moderate climates with a fair share of rainfall. Review the warmer climate section when summer arrives for suggested check-ups. As for winter, if you live in or spend a good amount of time in a colder climate, here are some common things to prepare your Subaru during the winter season: